Joseph Gott (1786-1860) British, first half 19th century

Overall the condition of the marble is good with wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is dirt throughout on the surface, and the figure may have been exposed to the elements. There is a naturally occurring fissure running from the front right corner to the right hip of the dog. The top of the staff has been reattached. There are a few nicks and chips, including to the edges of the hat, the ears of the dog, and the edges of the base. There is some naturally occurring veining visible on the surface, including one running from the rear of the dog up its back, and several others to the rough terrain on the base. There are some naturally occurring inclusions, including to the edges of the base in front of the dog and to the edges of the signature. The condition of the base is good with some minor chips to the edges. There are some losses to the surface due to veining consistent with the material.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Another version of this apparently unrecorded model was sold at Sotheby's London, 2 December 1987, lot 200. The poignant image is thought to be based on the death of the artist Charles Gough in April 1805 on his walk over Helvellyn to Grasmere. His faithful dog remained with his master's remains until they were found in July and thus inspired numerous interpretations in painting and verse.

Sotheby's would like to thank Timothy Stevens for his assistance in cataloguing this lot.